Festival of Lights Diwali Integration set to light up the waterfront

The second annual White Rock Festival of Lights Diwali Integration event takes place this Saturday, noon to 8 p.m. at the waterfront.

“The weather is going to be great, so let’s have everyone in the community join together and enjoy each other’s cultures,” said festival chair Moti Bali.

Bali said Jason Kenney, federal Minister for Multiculturalism will be a special guest at the festivities, which, while inspired by the Hindu festival celebrating the triumph of light over dark forces in the world, embraces all ethnicities and cultures.

“I’m inviting every different culture to come down here dressed in their traditional garb,” added Bali.

Following a Dhol (drum) performance at 11:30 a.m. opening lamp-lighting and cake ceremonies will be followed by a performance by Semiahmoo First Nation shortly after 1 p.m.

Other performances throughout the day include a Punjabi Gidha performance, the Oz Group Band, the Tam O’ Shanter and Bollywood dancers. German music at 4 p.m. will be followed by Truly Tina (a tribute to Tina Turner), a Bhangra troupe, the La Riva Phillipines Group, Arabic belly dance, Hindi songs and alt-pop duo Fionn (Alanna and Brianne) at 6:30 p.m.

An appearance by the O Cheng group and Bollywood Hungama performance will conclude with fireworks at 8 p.m.

A free shuttle service from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. will connect free parking at Semiahmoo First Nation parking lot at 15782 Marine Drive (near Washington Avenue Grill) with the activities, which will be focused on west beach.